J-CROSS 留学サービス審査機構

We are proud to introduce the establishment of J-CROSS (Japan Commission for the Regulation of Overseas Study Services). This non-profit organization has been created to provide a new system for certifying businesses that take part in the Japanese overseas study industry.

Developing employees who can make an impact on a global level has become an important topic in Japan. Moreover, our country has made vitalizing the overseas study sector a clear priority. However, a number of challenging issues have recently surfaced within Japan's overseas study industry. These include the bankruptcies of several study abroad agencies and legal actions involving how cancellation fees are handled.

To deal with these issues and improve the health of the industry, the three organizations listed below began collaborating with each other beginning in July of 2010. During this process, they also received guidance and support from relevant Japanese governmental agencies (see below).

● JAOS (Japan Association of Overseas Studies) - Organization that represents the interests of study abroad-related businesses.
● JATA (Japan Association of Travel Agents) - Organization that represents the travel industry. Among its members is CIEL (Council of International Education & Language Travel, Japan), which conducts research on overseas and language study.
● SASC (Study Abroad Support Council) - Consumer-centered NPO that focuses on consumer consultation and dispute settlement within the study abroad industry.

● Consumer Affairs Agency
● Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
● Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
● Japan Tourism Agency

■ Contractual Explanation - How well does the contract explain program content and 'Substantive Matter'?
■ Delivery of Written Materials - Are written contracts and other important materials produced and delivered?
■ Adequate Contractual Modifications - Does the contract contain an appropriate cancellation policy?
■ Advertising - Are all claims and promotional materials accurate?
■ Advance Deposits - Are appropriate measures being taken to safe-guard consumers when they pre-pay for housing and tuition?
■ Financial Stability - Has the business proved it is financially stable by providing us with at least 3 years worth of financial statements?

Institutions certified by J-CROSS will be registered and listed on our website. Moreover, these businesses will be allowed to put our organization's 'Mark of Certification' on their pamphlets and other promotional materials.